Teaching Your Children to Share
Today many children have more toys than ever. In fact, some toys may not even come out of the packaging. Thanks to business competition, the Internet, garage sales and trade groups, toys are much easier to obtain for many families. With holidays fast approaching, children are expecting more toys as presents. Are we spoiling our children buying every toy they like or want? Do they really appreciate their toys? Do your children have temper tantrums if they leave the store without a purchased toy?
These are questions that you as a parent must think about and come up with answers. Realize that children are being encouraged to want more toys because they see commercials and television shows glamorizing them. Even children at school may talk about these toys as the latest must-haves. It is often easy for children to be persuaded by marketing techniques.
Don't expect your children's "toytitudes" to improve overnight. This takes time. You must plan it very carefully. Here are some tips on how to improve their "toytitudes."
For every new toy your children receive, have them go through their toy box and donate same amount of gently used toys. For example, if your son receives two toys, then he must donate two of his gently used toys. Do not allow your children to donate old or broken toys. Children will learn important values which include helping others, recycling, and de-cluttering.
If your child was abusing his or her toy, then take it away as a consequence. Tell them when you will give it back to him or her. Have him or her earn the toy back.
When going to a store, explain to your child tell your child that today he or she will not get a toy, but some other day. If your child agrees, allow him or her to go with you to the store. If your child disagrees, explain that he or she will have to stay home with your spouse. Chances are they will agree. Be sure to compliment and praise your child for their "grown-up" behavior.
Have your children earn their toys by fulfilling responsibilities, such as completing their chores, doing well in school, and by improving their behaviors.
Make homemade toys when doing arts and crafts.
Be sure to discuss these ideas with your spouse and come up with a plan that you both will implement. You need the support of your spouse to improve your children's "toytitudes" because your children may go to your spouse to win sympathy.
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Self Help